Philadelphia is investing $1.5 million in local artists and arts organizations through the 2025 Illuminate the Arts Grant (ITAG), a city-led initiative aimed at supporting and strengthening Philly's creative community.
The program, now in its fourth year, is led by Creative Philadelphia in partnership with the ITAG Committee and City Council. Applications are open through Nov. 30 for individual artists, small and mid-size nonprofit arts organizations, and small creative enterprises based in Philadelphia County.
“Now in its fourth funding cycle, the Illuminate the Arts Grant has provided vital funding and a straightforward application process,” said Val Gay, Chief Cultural Officer and Executive Director of Creative Philadelphia. “Funding opportunities like this one help strengthen our creative sector and sustain our city’s creative ecosystem.”
The grant program was established by City Council in 2021 to help the city’s arts community recover from the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2025, organizers say the initiative continues to fund artists and organizations whose work enhances Philadelphia’s vibrancy, resilience, and quality of life.
”Investing in the arts means investing in our local economy and the well-being of Philadelphians,” said City Councilmember Isaiah Thomas. “We created this grant to help struggling artists and creators, but we continued this grant because the arts help our city thrive.”
Individual artists with a 2024 income of $66,850 or less can apply for grants of $1,500–$2,000. Artists with dependents may qualify under higher income limits.
Small nonprofit arts organizations with 2024 operating budgets of $100,000 or less can apply for $3,000–$5,000.
Mid-size nonprofit arts organizations with 2024 operating budgets between $100,000 and $500,000 can apply for grants ranging from $5,000 to $7,000.
Small creative enterprises with 2024 operating budgets of less than $500,000 can apply for grants ranging from $5,000 to $7,000.
Funding priority will go to individual artists and small creative enterprises that typically have fewer access points to other funding opportunities. City officials note the process will be competitive, as more applicants are expected than available funds.
Applicants can submit only one request to the 2025 Illuminate the Arts Grant, but are encouraged to apply for support through other funding available from local, state, and national levels. A list of other resources is available at creativephl.org/opportunities.
